The Ministry of Health aims to reduce maternal deaths by 30 percent within two years. This ambitious target will be pursued through a new national strategy. The plan specifically targets 11 referral and teaching hospitals. These facilities are identified as high-burden for maternal mortality.
This initiative responds to alarming health data from 2025. In that year, Ghana recorded 965 institutional maternal deaths. Nearly half of these tragic cases occurred in the country's major hospitals. The strategy acknowledges maternal mortality as a national emergency. It calls for urgent, coordinated, and data-driven action. Deputy Health Minister Professor Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah highlighted this at a recent meeting. The meeting focused on accelerating maternal mortality reduction by 2030.
The new strategy will tackle the main causes of maternal deaths. These include postpartum haemorrhage, also known as severe bleeding after childbirth. Hypertensive disorders, like dangerously high blood pressure during pregnancy, are also targeted. Sepsis, a life-threatening infection, is another focus. The Ministry will enforce stricter clinical protocols. Emergency response systems will be strengthened. Referral networks across the healthcare system will be improved. This ensures timely help for pregnant women with complications.
Professor Dr Ayensu-Danquah also revealed government plans. They will fast-track the National Patient Referral Policy approval. Implementation guidelines will be developed soon. This will improve coordination and efficiency for patient transfers. The Ministry will also retool high-burden hospitals. Essential medical equipment will be provided. Blood products and critical healthcare supplies are also prioritized. This aims to improve maternal healthcare delivery significantly.
Prof. Ayensu-Danquah urged stakeholders to act. She stressed the need for concrete actions beyond discussions. Preventable maternal deaths should no longer happen in Ghana. The consultative meeting gathered key officials. Representatives from the Ghana Health Service attended. Regional Health Directors were present. Development partners and frontline health workers also participated. They deliberated on strategies to save mothers' lives.
The Ghana Health Service plays a crucial role. Their collaboration is essential for the strategy's success. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service and the Ghana Health Service informs these targets. Past reports have indicated a need for improved emergency obstetric care. The economic implications of maternal mortality are significant. They impact families, communities, and national productivity.